Significant resources have been invested by the health sector in disability services over the past number of years. The allocation for disability services will rise to over €2 billion in 2020, compared to the €1.904 billion allocated to the Disability Services Programme in 2019. Decisions in terms of the HSE’s Disability Programme priorities for 2020 will be made within the overall context of its annual national service planning process which is currently underway. Pending completion of this process I cannot comment further at this stage on funding allocations to specific service providers.
This Government's ongoing priority is the safeguarding of vulnerable people in the care of the health service. We are committed to providing services and supports for people with disabilities, which will empower them to live independent lives. The importance of increased respite services is acknowledged in this context.
At national level, the HSE received funding of €10 million to support the development of respite services in 2018. This funding was subsequently allocated between Community Health Organisations in the form of twelve Respite Houses and the development of local alternative respite provision. In the budget for 2020, an additional €5 million is being provided for intensive support packages for children and young people in response to the changing needs of service users and their families. A further €5 million is being provided for emergency residential services and other supports for people with priority needs.
With regard to the Deputy’s query concerning new respite services for Kilkenny, this is a service matter for the HSE and, accordingly, I have asked the Executive to reply directly to the Deputy on the matter.